NORTH CAROLINA — Several schools, colleges, and county offices across western North Carolina have announced closures, delayed openings, and schedule adjustments for Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026, due to weather conditions and concerns about road safety, particularly in mountainous areas.
Several school districts will operate on a two-hour delay Thursday. These include Avery County Schools, Graham County Schools, Swain County Schools, Mountain Discovery Charter School, and Ashe County Schools. Graham and Swain county officials noted that no buses will operate on icy roads, and Ashe County officials said road conditions will be reassessed Thursday morning.
Several schools will be closed for the day. Madison County Schools and Yancey County Schools are closed, with both designating Thursday as a teacher work day. Mitchell County Schools are also closed for a teacher work day.
At the postsecondary level, Mayland Community College will hold a remote learning day. BRH Highlands-Cashiersand Concealed Carry Academy, LLC announced closures.
In Mitchell County, Mitchell County Offices will open at 10 a.m. The New Kituwah Academy will open at 9:30 a.m.for both early childhood and elementary students.
Families and staff are encouraged to continue monitoring official announcements for updates, especially regarding transportation and changing road conditions.
